Well before establishing their partnership with the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia (CFNOVA), Linda Carr and her husband, Clarence James, were committed to supporting the causes they hold dear. Indeed, giving back is a cornerstone of Linda’s life, instilled from an early age by her family. “Even when we didn’t have much, we still gave,” Linda recalls. Thanksgiving dinners were shared with other families, and Christmas gifts were offered to those in need. These moments shaped Linda’s belief that giving back builds character and brings joy. “I enjoy giving because it makes a difference. I think of it as something you’re supposed to do,” she says. Over time, her generosity has helped support organizations like St. Jude’s Research Hospital, Shelter House, Parkview Community Center, Shriners Hospitals for Children, ASPCA, and WETA.
Journey to CFNOVA
Linda’s philanthropic responsibility led her to create a charitable giving plan after she sold her company and retired in May 2023. Determined to maximize the impact of her contributions, Linda began her giving plan process by researching different organizations to understand their operational and administrative costs. “You want to make sure your giving is going to where it is supposed to go,” she explains.
In December 2023, Linda and Clarence established the Carr-James Community Service Funding partnership with CFNOVA. to continue fulfilling their immediate and long-term charitable goals while supporting nonprofit organizations directly.
First Impressions of the Community Foundation
The Community Foundation’s personalized services and commitment to Northern Virginia communities initially drew Linda to our work. She realized our team’s knowledge of local nonprofit organizations would help her and Clarence make informed decisions about where to give back. Linda does not see or know everything that the team at the Community Foundation sees. Like all donors, she relies on CFNOVA’s eyes and ears to determine where the need is.
As a dedicated partner, Linda appreciates the Community Foundation’s vision to Build a Community that Works for Everyone, reflected in engaging events like the People’s Supper. These gatherings provide her with the opportunity to meet donors and nonprofits, learn about the community’s achievements, and identify where the needs are. Linda often shares what she learned from these events with family and friends, creating a ripple effect through her philanthropy.
Linda also values CFNOVA’s investment opportunities, which enable her to grow her fund strategically while deciding when and how to allocate resources. She credits Director of Donor Relations Gabrielle Webster for her support in setting up and managing the Carr-James Community Service Fund, answering questions, and providing administrative assistance.
Advice for Other New Fundholders
A year into operations, Linda is proud of the Carr-James Community Service Fund’s progress and impact. Her advice to anyone considering establishing a fund is simple: “If you want to give but are unsure how much or where, an organization like CFNOVA helps you understand the community’s needs and directs your help to where it’s needed most.”
Establishing a Fund at The Community Foundation of Northern Virginia
Fundholders like Linda and Clarence are making a tangible, positive impact throughout the Northern Virginia community and beyond. The team at CFNOVA is proud to help turn charitable giving dreams into reality. Contact us today or explore our funds online to learn how to make a lasting impact.
Questions?
Questions?
